The Ford F-Series are once again the top selling vehicle in Idaho, closely followed by the RAM 1500-3500 and the Chevy Silverado. Idahoans, especially in our rural communities, need trucks to work and play in this state. That’s why CVI was so excited to see the recent announcements that electric versions of all three trucks are coming soon.
It’s clear that Idahoans share that excitement, as local dealers have reported substantial numbers of pre-orders for the Ford F-Series. With the most torque ever for an F-150, the ability to power your home for three days, and a 230-300 mile range, it’s easy to see why Idaho roads will be seeing more Ford Lightnings in the near future.
Yet electric vehicle (EV) charging stations can be hard to come by along some of Idaho’s major highways. That is why CVI supports the passage of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act and the Build Back Better Act. These bills will provide Idaho’s municipalities and businesses with new funding avenues to pay for these charging stations, which will shape Idaho’s new EV charging grid and open up new opportunities for EV drivers to visit all of Idaho. Idaho is expected to receive $30 million over five years to support the expansion of our EV charging network, with an additional $2.5 billion in grant funding available as well.
Already, public charging stations in Idaho Falls and Caldwell have seen significant use by the community and tourists. The charging stations provide an opportunity for drivers to stop and check out the local flavor, perusing restaurants and shops. With the legislation emphasizing rural communities, this funding will help other small towns in Idaho bring in new business and prepare for the EV growth predicted by experts over the next 15 years, as car manufacturers transition to EV-majority production.
While applications for this particular option for federal funding haven’t opened yet, interested municipalities and businesses can apply for other funding opportunities through the Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment (EVSE) program, which provides a 80-100% rebate for direct-current fast charger equipment.
The Nez Perce Tribe, Blaine County, City of Bonners Ferry, and Eagle Landing, a gas station on I-90/US-95 near Coeur d’Alene, have all been awarded funding for electric vehicle charging infrastructure through the program.. Businesses and municipalities can apply to receive funding for EV charging infrastructure from this program through the Idaho Department of Environmental Quality. Applications will remain open until all funds have been allocated.
Are you interested in learning more about the benefits of EV charging infrastructure? Want to advocate for an EV charging station in your area, or get involved with CVI’s rural EV charging efforts? Email patty@cvidaho.org to learn more.